Question: Is it permissible to use the breakdown lane for passing and turns in Chicopee and South Hadley?

–Anonymous

Answer: The simple answer is state law does not allow the breakdown lane for any type of travel.

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 89, Section 4B reads:

“Upon all ways the driver of a vehicle shall drive in the lane nearest the right side of the way when such lane is available for travel, except when overtaking another vehicle or when preparing for a left turn. When the right lane has been constructed or designated for purposes other than ordinary travel, a driver shall drive his vehicle in the lane adjacent to the right lane except when overtaking another vehicle or when preparing for a left or right turn; provided, however, that a driver may drive his vehicle in such right lane if signs have been erected by the department of highways permitting the use of such lane.”

Chicopee police say the practice is dangerous and they do ticket people if they see them traveling in the breakdown lane on Memorial Drive, which we are assuming is where you concern lies.